Baked Stuffed Tomatoes: Easy Recipe and Perfect Cooking

Updated: July 9, 2025 • Reading time ≈ 18 min (complete recipe optimized for cooking stuffed tomatoes).

1. Why master cooking stuffed tomatoes ?

Cooking stuffed tomatoes is THE key to a killer dish. It's simple: too raw, they stay hard and mushy. Overcooked, they become soggy mush, and they go straight to the compost bin. In short, for a perfect balance between tender flesh, juicy stuffing, and concentrated flavors, you need to perfect this crucial moment.

Not forgetting the little “wow” effect when you present juicy, fragrant tomatoes, lightly browned on top, to your friends or family… You’ll be able to slap on the reference recipe.

The secret? Gentle yet precise cooking to preserve the natural sugars of the tomatoes and the aromas of your stuffing.

2. Ingredients & selection tips

To begin, you need to have the right foundation in hand:

• Round and fleshy tomatoes : choose the round variety so that the stuffing fits in well without cracking.
• Gourmet & fresh stuffing : classic or veggie, mix of minced meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, herbs…
• The essential herbs : a hint of herbes de Provence to flavor the stuffing and cooking.
• Seasonings : don't forget a little fleur de sel , freshly ground pepper, and a hint of nutmeg if you like.

Finally, a handful of olive oil to brush the tomatoes before putting them in the oven gives them a golden, shiny and delicious finish.

3. Ideal cooking time & temperature

For proper cooking, set your oven to 180°C (gas mark 6). Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking tray or dish, ideally in a base of homemade tomato sauce (it's even better; check out our Best Air Fryers 2025 recipe for a quick and juicy cooking alternative).

The total time is around 40 to 50 minutes. Beyond that, beware of dehydration, which makes the tomatoes hard and the stuffing dry... But after 35-40 minutes, pierce with a knife; the flesh should be tender AND melting.

4. Detailed steps for successful stuffed tomatoes

1. 🍅 Prepare your tomatoes : Cut off the top, carefully scoop out the flesh with a small spoon, keeping the pulp for stuffing or a sauce.
2. 🔪 Stuffing : Mix your stuffing with the reserved pulp, chopped garlic, onion, salt, pepper, a hint of herbes de Provence and olive oil.
3. 🧆 Filling : Stuff your tomatoes well without packing them too tightly, and put the tops back in place.
4. 🍳 Gentle cooking : In a dish, pour a thin layer of pulp, oil the stuffed tomatoes a little, and bake at 180°C for 40-50 min.
5. 🌡️ Check cooking : A well-cooked tomato should yield to the fork but keep its shape.
6. 🥄 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving, the stuffing will continue to soak in and the juices will redistribute.

5. Tasty Variations & Alternatives

5.1. Summer barbecue version 🌞

Do you prefer stuffed tomatoes on the barbecue? Wrap them in aluminum foil and place them on the grill. Allow 30-40 minutes over medium heat for a divine smoky flavor.

5.2. Vegetarian version 🌿

A stuffing made with quinoa, finely chopped vegetables, and cream cheese, seasoned with herbs. The cooking method remains the same, only the dish changes.

5.3. Gourmet idea

Add grated Parmesan cheese to your stuffing and sprinkle a little on top before baking for a gratinated, crispy-melt crust.

6. Conservation and batch cooking

Stuffed tomatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 2 days in a covered container. For cost-effective batch cooking:

• Prepare your entire batch, let it cool, then cover with plastic wrap. You can easily freeze them in individual portions, perfect for a quick meal.
• Gentle defrosting in the fridge, then place in the oven for 25 minutes at 160°C before serving.

7. FAQ cooking stuffed tomatoes

8. Tips & mistakes to avoid

• Mistake: Stuffing to the brim without space ≫ The stuffing swells during cooking, leaving a small hollow at the top.
• Tips: Brush your tomatoes with olive oil before cooking for lightly grilled, tender skin.
• Pro tip: Placing a dish of water at the bottom of the oven keeps the moisture in and prevents the tomatoes from drying out too much.
• Mistakes to avoid: Do not use too high a heat and do not use lids that will prevent steam from escaping: cooking will be less successful.

9. Useful links

• Air Fryers Comparison 2025 – For fast and healthy cooking.
• Barbecue & grilling summer party – Equipment & inspiration for your gourmet summer.
• Stuffed Tomato Recipe by Chef Philippe Etchebest – Dive into a classic, professional version.

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